Suzuki own-goal blunder costs Villa as Fulham earn draw
Aston Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki dropped the ball into his own net as Fulham recovered to earn a 1-1 Premier League draw at Villa Park.
Nicolas Jackson had earlier continued his fine scoring form for the hosts, but his first-half goal was not enough for victory because of Suzuki’s costly error. The Japan international could not hold on to Alex Iwobi’s inswinging corner midway through the second half and fumbled the ball narrowly over the line for an own goal.
Villa were in good shape when Jackson got his sixth goal in all competitions in October — more than any other top-flight player. He raced on to Johan Manzambi’s pass, evaded weak challenges from David Affengruber and Timothy Castagne, and slotted past Bernd Leno.
That goal came in the 39th minute, and Villa should have gone ahead 23 minutes earlier when they were awarded a penalty. Leon Goretzka’s header was handled by Sander Berge, with referee Sam Barrott originally missing the offence, only for video assistant referee Matthew Donohue to advise him to watch it on a pitchside monitor. Barrott changed his decision, but Villa captain John McGinn could not capitalise as his penalty bounced away off the crossbar.
When it was goalless, Fulham nearly went ahead when Suzuki made a superb one-handed save to keep out Oscar Bobb’s effort. Suzuki also denied Gonzalo Garcia in the second half, but he badly blundered for the equaliser and it ultimately proved costly — and beneficial for the visitors.
Fulham were worthy of the point as they responded well after the break, pinning Villa back and creating pressure. The Cottagers made it four points from two games to ease pressure on boss Álvaro Arbeloa. Villa, meanwhile, were unable to build on last week’s impressive win over Manchester City as their inconsistent start to the season continued, remaining mid-table.
Jackson’s clinical finish and Suzuki’s earlier saves offered positives for Unai Emery’s side, but the missed penalty and late howler defined the afternoon. For Fulham, the point was merited after a strong second-half showing and will feel like a valuable result away from home.
